Chromecast Google Chromecast FAQ

little_pob

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What is Chromecast?
Chromecast is an IPTV device from Google. It's a 3" dongle that plugs directly into an HDMI port on your TV or AV receiver, and contains the Marvell 88DE3005 system-on-a-chip.

How much does it cost?
£30GBP
$35USD

Is it available in the UK?
Official UK release was 19th March 2014. Prior to that it was only available as "grey import" from the US.

The grey import is cheaper, are there any downsides?
There's no warranty. The power lead will be US spec, i.e. 2 pin, and possibly 110V (though "international" 110-250v transformers are the norm these days, and there are reports they can be powered from the USB port on some smart TVs). If you're importing yourself, you'll likely have to pay import VAT and customs duty. Normally this will depend on what you pay, and the exchange rate on the day it's checked through customs. However, if they open it, you'll have to pay import VAT and customs duty on the UK retail price - as the device now available in the UK.

What apps are there?
Netflix, YouTube, GooglePlay, and Chrome.

Certain other services, e.g. Hulu Plus, can be streamed from mobile devices.

Content viewed via the desktop version of the Chrome browser can be 'cast' to your Chromecast.

Can I stream content stored on my media server/NAS?
Although the SDK has been available for a few weeks, it is unknown if direct access to NAS boxes and other networked media storage devices is an option.

However, it is possible to play offline content by casting from the Chrome browser "tab cast" method or from a mobile device.
 
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Should probably add that Chromecast can display any content from any Chrome browser on any desktop/laptop to your TV. So in theory if you are watching iPlayer on your laptop using chrome, then you should be able to watch that content on your TV instead. This a A bit like Apple TV but with fewer restrictions.

Just to clarify, it does not stream medias from a network share. Nor does it allow you to view your Android phone on your TV (though in theory it could, Google deliberately block it).

Finally just been confirmed the accompanying software is now available from UK Play store. Who knows, maybe the device will hit the UK before Xmas.

Chromecast Android app now available internationally | Android Central
 
I've got myself a Chromecast but haven't got around to having a play with it yet. Was hoping for a cfw of some sort but there is only an unlocked bootloader on earlier models atm. So, unfortunately its just gathering dust by my PC upto yet. :-\

Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk 2
 
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